Karen Tipper talks about Bell Cornwell’s new Sussex office one month after opening.
Category
Bell Cornwell News
Date
14 July 2025
Bell Cornwell recently celebrated the opening of their Sussex office. Based in Chichester, it strengthens the firm’s presence across the county.
One month in, we spoke with Partner, Karen Tipper, who is leading the new office, to hear how the first few weeks have gone and what’s in store.
What inspired Bell Cornwell to open a new office in Chichester, and why now?
Opening in Chichester was a natural next step for us. Sussex is a region with a complex and diverse Planning landscape, from a national park to coastal communities. Having a dedicated base here allows us to better support existing clients and connect with new ones. The timing felt right — there’s a lot happening in the planning policy arena, and we wanted to be on the ground to respond to that.
How has the first month in the new office gone?
It’s been exciting and, at times, quite a learning curve! There’s a lot that goes into setting up a new office — things you don’t always consider until you’re doing it. But I’ve loved every minute of it. The Chichester business community has been incredibly welcoming, and I’ve had great feedback and encouragement from contacts across the region.
What are your key goals for the office in the coming months?
Building relationships is top of the list — getting out, meeting people, and raising awareness of who we are and what we do. I want Bell Cornwell to become a trusted name in the Sussex Planning scene. That means offering the same clear, realistic advice and personal service we’re known for, but now with a strong local presence.
What kinds of opportunities are emerging in Sussex for landowners and developers?
The evolving Planning framework and local plan reviews are creating significant opportunities. The various Call for Sites consultations in particular have opened the door for new development promotions — residential and otherwise. If people are considering promoting land or want to understand their site’s potential, now is a really good time to get professional advice.
You’re from the area – how does it feel to be working back on home ground?
It feels great! Sussex is where I built much of my career. Being based in Chichester gives me the chance to work closely with the communities I know so well. East and West Sussex each have their own Planning challenges, but that’s what makes the work interesting. I’m looking forward to helping shape the future of the region in a thoughtful and sustainable way.
Bell Cornwell’s new Sussex office is now open in Chichester. Get in touch for more information or to speak to Karen, or reach directly via LinkedIn.
The Bell Cornwell team provides tailored advice to help you maximise your chances of success, from site selection and design coordination to planning applications and post-permission requirements. If you want expert planning support, get in touch with our team.
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Karen Tipper is a Chartered Town Planner and she leads Bell Cornwell’s newly established Sussex Office, which opened in June 2025. Karen’s broad industry experience has equipped her with a thorough understanding of the Planning process and the commercial drivers behind development. Karen provides the full range of Planning services – from assessing development potential to representing clients at appeal – and is recognised for her clear, practical advice. She has secured Planning permissions for residential, commercial, and large-scale educational establishments.
